Philippine volleyball star Alyssa Valdez has officially confirmed her relationship with businessman Ian Umali, making their romance Instagram official through a heartfelt birthday video that also hinted at exciting plans for their future together.
Valdez shared a reel from their joint birthday celebration, explaining that the gathering celebrated both her birthday and Umali’s. The video featured family members and close friends sharing their wishes and manifestations for the volleyball icon in the coming year.
Among those who appeared in the video were Samantha Bernardo and Angelica Panganiban, who playfully teased Valdez about taking the next step in her love life.
“Proposal,” Bernardo joked.
Panganiban followed with another lighthearted remark, saying, “Ang ima-manifest ko, ‘yung kaya mong suotin araw-araw, sa daliri,” referring to an engagement ring.
The video also featured Umali, who spoke about the couple’s plans moving forward.
“We just had meetings about it this year, ‘di ba? So, we’re planning something big, something to organize and be intentional about what she wants to do in the future.”
He then sealed the moment with a kiss on Valdez’s cheek, further confirming their relationship to fans.
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The post quickly drew reactions from fellow celebrities and social media personalities. Content creator Mimiyuuuh expressed surprise over Valdez publicly referring to Umali as her boyfriend, commenting, “HINDI AKO SANAY NA SINASABE MONG MAY BOYFRIEND KA ATEH?!?!? LOVE KO KAYOOOOOO!”
Meanwhile, event host Tim Yap also joined the celebration, writing, “Happy manifesting! Happy birthday to you and Ian!!!!”
Umali, who serves as the president of Quantum Golf, has been a familiar face at Valdez’s games with the Creamline Cool Smashers in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL). He was also seen supporting the volleyball star during her campaign with the Philippine national team in the 2026 AVC Women’s Cup held in Candon, Ilocos Sur.
Valdez, widely regarded as one of the country’s most accomplished volleyball players, is currently preparing for the upcoming 2026 PVL season with Creamline.
